CAD Last modified: Thursday, May 14, 1998
Acronym for computer-aided design. A CAD system is a combination of hardware and software that enables engineers and architects to design everything from furniture to airplanes. In addition to the software, CAD systems require a high-quality graphics monitor; a mouse, light pen, or digitizing tablet for drawing; and a special printer or plotter for printing design specifications. CAD systems allow an engineer to view a design from any angle with the push of a button and to zoom in or out for close-ups and long-distance views. In addition, the computer keeps track of design dependencies so that when the engineer changes one value, all other values that depend on it are automatically changed accordingly. Until the mid 1980s, all CAD systems were specially constructed computers. Now, you can buy CAD software that runs on general-purpose workstations and personal computers. Sponsored listings Autodesk Inventor: Revolutionizing Digital Prototyping - Get To Market Faster with Software That Enables You To Create, Test, and Iterate Your Models in 3D. Print Your CAD Model in 3D Thermoplastic - Build from 3D CAD files using high-performance engineering materials for precise, durable, functional parts as well as ultra-smooth surface finish. Computer Aided Design (CAD) - Offers instant price quotes from multiple service bureaus and technologies to ensure that you always pay the right price for rapid prototyping.
Nerdworld's CAD software page  This CAD resource page contains links to CAD software and related newsgroups. ACCEL Online Home page for ACCEL Technologies, developers of CAD software for the development of printed circuit boards. There are links to their products, technical support and company information. Artwork Conversion Software home page The Artwork Conversion Software home page offers information on their CAD translation products and services, support, and company information. Ashlar CAD software products Home page of Ashlar, which develops and sells CAD software products. Bentley Systems home page Provides company, industry and product news and information, as well as links to their MicroStation engineering software product, user groups, publications, and international offices. Graphisoft home page Graphisoft develops and markets architectural CAD software for Macintosh and Windows platforms. Their home page offers links to their products, technical support, company information and news, and a QuickTime VR gallery. OrCAD home page The OrCAD site features the OrCAD Express for Windows product, company news, and technical information. Router Solutions home page The Router Solutions site provides links to their line of CAE/CAD/CAM interface products, tools and services. Video for Windows Runtime installation notes Contains installation instructions for Video for Windows Runtime for Microsoft Windows 3.1. Yahoo!'s CAD software page Yahoo!'s directory of CAD software. Yahoo!'s Electronic Computer Aided Design (ECAD) page Yahoo!'s directory of Electronic Computer Aided Design (ECAD).

Related Terms

CAD/CAM CAE calendar CAM digitizing tablet graphics light pen monitor mouse plotter workstation

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